International Tea Day: Explore rich history, cultural significance & benefits of tea

7 hours ago 1

Tea is one of the world’s oldest beverages and is the most consumed drink in the world, after water. May 21, every year, marks the celebration of International Tea Day. It promotes sustainable tea production and consumption, raises awareness about tea's economic, social, and cultural impact, and supports smallholder tea producers and workers. International Tea Day appreciates tea's role in global trade, culture, and livelihoods. This day highlights the importance of fair labor practices, environmental sustainability, and equitable trade policies in the tea sector. Let's explore the rich history, cultural significance, and benefits of tea and how it brings people together worldwide.

Celebrating Tea

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Tea has a rich history spanning over 5,000 years. Today, it continues to benefit people's health, culture, and livelihoods. Tea is grown in specific regions and provides a living for around 13 million people, including small farmers and their families, who rely on the tea industry for their income.

Birth of tea

The story of tea began in China around 2737 BC. Emperor Shen Nung's servant was boiling water under a tree when leaves fell in, creating an accidental infusion. Shen Nung, being a herbalist, decided to try it and discovered tea! This chance discovery marked the start of tea's incredible journey.

While the legend's truth is unknown, tea drinking started in China long before it reached the West. Evidence shows tea was consumed in China as early as the Han dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD). However, it was during the Tang dynasty (618-906 AD) that tea became China's national drink. A writer named Lu Yu even wrote the first book about tea, "Ch'a Ching". Soon after, Japanese monks who studied in China brought tea back to Japan, where it became an important part of their culture, inspiring the traditional Tea Ceremony.

Cultural significance of tea

Millions of people around the world drink tea for many reasons. We will explore the cultural significance of tea globally, as well as their associated customs and rituals.

China

China, the birthplace of tea, has a rich tea culture. With diverse climates, China produces hundreds of tea varieties, like Oolong, Jasmine, and Gunpowder. Tea is deeply rooted in Chinese life, tied to philosophies of balance and harmony through "Cha Dao," the art of tea-making. “Cha Dao” refers to the art of making tea and is closely linked to Daoism and Chinese philosophies of balance, harmony, fulfilment, and enjoyment.

Japan

In Japan, traditional teahouses serve Matcha, a bright green powdered tea. Prepared the same way since the 12th century, Matcha is used in Chado (“Way of tea”), the spiritual Japanese Tea Ceremony. The ceremony focuses on precise movements and gestures, creating a unique experience.

India

In India, tea is a beloved drink, and the country is the world's largest producer and consumer. Chai, the national drink, is a flavourful black tea infused with spices like ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon. For centuries, Chai has been a staple of Indian culture, often served to guests as a sign of hospitality. Street vendors, known as Chaiwallahs, play an important role in communities, serving as gathering spots for locals to share news and gossip.

Thailand

Thailand is possibly best known for delicious Thai iced tea, or ‘cha-yen”. It’s a drink which has become popular in Thai restaurants around the world and is made from strongly brewed black tea served over ice. Cha-yen is perfect in blisteringly hot weather, or as an accompaniment to equally hot food.

Britain

Britain and tea are inseparable. From traditional afternoon tea with Earl Grey and scones to strong brews in local cafes, tea is an integral part of British culture. Its popularity, dating back to the Victorian era, remains strong, with perhaps 160 million cups being consumed daily in the UK.

Health benefits of tea

Tea, enjoyed by two-thirds of the world's population, comes from the Camellia sinensis plant. There are three main types: black (fermented), green (non-fermented), and oolong (partially fermented). The processing method determines the type and flavor. Green tea is made by quickly heating leaves to prevent fermentation, while black tea is made by allowing leaves to oxidize, changing flavor and color. Both green and black tea have health benefits, with green tea known for its anti-cancer properties and black tea showing similar potential. Take a look.

1. You may have better blood pressure

Consumption of flavan-3-ols, the plant compound found in true teas, is linked to heart-health benefits, including a reduction in blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar, according to the aforementioned Advances in Nutrition study.

2. You may have a reduced risk of certain cancers

According to data published in an Advances in Nutrition study in 2020 suggests that tea consumption may have protective effects against some types of cancer, particularly oral cancer. Tea's polyphenols, which have antioxidant properties, may soak up the free radicals that contribute to cancer development.

3. You may have better attention

Green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that has been shown to impact brain health. According to a 2021 study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, the L-theanine found in tea may play a role in improving attention, ultimately boosting working memory.